Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Chiropractic?Chiropractic practice is a drug-free, hands-on approach to providing health care for disorders related to the spine, pelvis, nervous system and joints, including assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Approximately 4 1/2 million Canadians seek chiropractic care each year.

2. What education does a Chiropractor have?Chiropractic is a regulated health profession recognized by a regulatory body in each province that has the authority to grant a license to practice and to grant the title of doctor. Licensing includes university studies for an undergraduate degree, followed by 4 years of postgraduate education in the Doctor of Chiropractic program at an accredited chiropractic institution, and finally, passing national and provincial board examinations (written and practical). Chiropractors are primary contact physicians and are fully licensed to diagnose.

3. What can I expect on my first visit to Waterdown Village Chiropractic Group?Starting from your first contact whether by phone, e-mail or drop-in, you will experience a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. You will be given the option to fill out general information and health history forms in the comfort of your own home, otherwise, one of our Chiropractic Assistants will assist you in the office and will answer any of your preliminary questions. Your chiropractor will then obtain a thorough history and perform the necessary examination. If you require x-rays, these will be completed after your first visit. Every effort will be made to make your first visit a positive one.

4. Will my Chiropractor explain things to me before treatment?Before any treatment begins the doctor will discuss her findings and answer any of your questions. Chiropractic treatment will begin only after all of your questions are answered and you understand the care plan provided. Your comfort is our #1 priority.

5. Is Chiropractic safe and effective?Multiple studies have proven Chiropractic care to be a very safe and effective form of health care when compared to NSAIDS, medical interventions and physiotherapy for spinal related conditions, including low back pain, headaches and neck pain. Side effects are rare and usually limited to tight and sore muscles.

6. How much will my Chiropractic treatment cost? Is it covered by my insurance plan?Today Chiropractic care is covered under most insurance benefit plans. We will assist you by providing all of the information you will need in order to obtain your reimbursed benefits. You do not need a referral to see a chiropractor, but you are responsible for checking into your own insurance coverage. Your total cost of chiropractic will depend on your condition, goals and type of care you need. Please don’t hesitate to ask us any questions you may have regarding the cost of your care.

7. What is an adjustment?The key to chiropractic care is the spinal adjustment. An adjustment is a gentle, hands-on maneuver performed by a chiropractor where pressure is applied to the affected joints to unlock them from their improper position. This allows muscles to relax and nerves to properly send their messages, thereby allowing the body’s physical function to improve.

8. Does it hurt?Chiropractic adjustments are very relieving and often make you feel great. There are many different ways to adjust your spine and perform your treatments. The method of adjustment that is the most comfortable for you and one that minimizes any discomfort will be used.

9. What is a Spinal Subluxation?A Spinal Subluxation is when spinal joints become “locked” out of their normal alignment. Spinal subluxations in your spine will affect many things in your body, most notably your nerves and muscles. Spinal subluxations can be fixed by chiropractic adjustments.